Friday, January 24, 2014

Pepperoni Caprese Bites with Basil Vinaigrette | Friday Night Bites

What an incredibly busy week.
So hectic that this weeks Friday Night Bites is actually appearing on
Friday. With work kicking into high gear
along with hosting my direct reports for the annual team appreciation lunch at
my house plus some other events, this week whirled by.

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I am excited to share this incredibly easy appetizer that is
a true winner for any party or simply nibbling on a Friday night. I typically adorn with salami but thought pepperoni
would be a nice touch along with a bit of Basil Vinaigrette. The combination was delicious. They can be made ahead of time and kept in an
air tight container then simply arrange on a platter or plate and enjoy. You can drizzle the basil vinaigrette or
serve on the side – you choose.

The recipe is a bit loose and I am sharing for 24 skewers plus
the vinaigrette. Just curious to learn
about the various ways that you have made these little nibbles. Always love hearing about others creative
ideas. Happy Friday Night Bites!!!

Pepperoni Caprese Bites with Basil Vinaigrette

Makes 24

24 Mini Mozzarella Balls

24 Basil Leaves

24 Slices of Pepperoni

24 Small Cherry Tomatoes

24 Toothpicks

Thread the mozzarella ball first then fold the pepperoni in
half and half again and thread onto the toothpick. Next add the basil leaf then the tomato.

Basil Vinaigrette

1/3 Cup Olive Oil

1 Tablespoon White Balsamic Vinegar

¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder

1 Scallion, finely minced

6 Basil leaves, chopped fine

Pinch of salt

6 Grinds of Black Pepper

In a medium glass jar, add all of the above ingredients and
shake well. Let sit at least 30 minutes
to let the flavors develop.

I have made these several times this summer with my homegrown yellow & red cherry tomatoes. I sometimes add a calamata olive to the skewer. So cute and so delish!! Look forward to trying your vinaigrette!

I believe it would taste just fine! I love onions, scallions and shallots, so I tend to cook with them. You could always add a touch of onion powder. Let me know how it turns out. Thank you for stopping by!!